CISLAC to FG: End Mob Killings, Prosecute Perpetrators of Uromi Lynching
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has condemned the killing of at least 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State, and called for an immediate and transparent investigation.
In a statement signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization revealed that the victims—hunters traveling from Rivers State to Kano for Eid—were lynched after their vehicle was intercepted by a vigilante group and armed youths.
The victims were beaten, tied to tires soaked in petrol, and set on fire. Viral videos show them pleading for mercy as they are attacked with axes, iron rods, and machetes. Onlookers watched but did not intervene.
CISLAC condemned the attack, describing it as part of a growing trend of vigilante violence in Nigeria.
The organization called for a thorough investigation and urged authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable, including any police officers who failed to act.
CISLAC stated, “Under international law, the Nigerian government has an unequivocal obligation to protect its citizens, safeguarding their right to life and protecting them from torture and other ill-treatment. The failure to fulfill this duty sends a dangerous message, signaling that violence and impunity will be tolerated, ultimately emboldening mobs and vigilantes to act with increasing brutality.”
CISLAC also urged President Bola Tinubu and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to take action and ensure justice for the victims.
“The incident in Uromi is not an isolated case but part of a disturbing trend of vigilante violence across the country, particularly in towns and villages where highway communities are increasingly besieged by groups taking the law into their own hands. This culture of mob violence has been allowed to thrive due to the government’s consistent failure to hold perpetrators accountable and enforce the rule of law,” the statement noted.
The statement concluded by calling on the government to prevent further vigilante killings.
“This includes ensuring that the police are properly equipped to respond effectively and that victims have access to justice and meaningful remedies. The government must implement both punitive and preventive measures to curb the rising tide of impunity and uphold the sanctity of human life.”
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